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British Shorthair

Loved by 86% of pet parents

Round-faced, plush-coated, and calm, this breed charms with its affectionate yet independent nature. Adaptable and gentle, it thrives as a loving companion in any home.

Breed Characteristics

Friendliness

Energy

Trainability

Playfulness

Adaptability

Average sizes and life expectancy of the breed.

HEIGHT

30–36 cm (male)

28–33 cm (female)

WEIGHT

5–9 kg (male)

4–7 kg (female)

LIFE EXPECTANCY

12–17 years

British Shorthair: Breed snapshot

Everything you need to know about this beloved breed at a glance

Key Breed Characteristics

Kingdom

Animalia

Phylum

Chordata

Class

Mammalia

Order

Carnivora

Family

Felidae

Genus

Felis

Species

Felis catus

Diet

Carnivore

"A British Shorthair isn't just a pet — they're a loyal companion, a playful friend, and a loving family member all in one."

Temperament & personality

Understanding British Shorthair's temperament is key to knowing if they're the right match for your lifestyle.

Personality Overview

The British Shorthair is known for its calm, easygoing temperament and affectionate nature, often enjoying quiet companionship without being overly demanding. They generally get along well with children and other pets.

Key Personality Traits

Friendliness

Calm and gentle with people and children

Intelligence

Learns routines and commands fairly quickly

Energy Level

Usually low-energy, prefers lounging to running

Playfulness

Enjoys toys but not overly active

Adaptability

Adjusts well to new environments and changes

Strengths

Calm and easygoing temperament
Tolerates children and other pets well
Low grooming needs due to dense coat
Adaptable to indoor living environments
Generally robust and healthy breed

Challenges

Can be prone to obesity if overfed
May dislike being carried or cuddled
Needs mental stimulation to prevent boredom
Can develop dental issues without care
May be reserved with unfamiliar people

Protect your British Shorthair

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Intelligence & exercise needs

British Shorthairs are both highly intelligent and energetic, requiring mental and physical stimulation to thrive.

🧠 Intelligence & training

Trainability

Learns with consistency

Overall rating

British Shorthairs display moderate intelligence and can learn basic commands or tricks, especially with positive reinforcement, but they are not typically eager to perform or participate in complex training activities.

Trainable Tasks:

Sit and stay commands

Recall training

Leash walking manners

Crate training

Socialization with pets

Targeting objects

🏃 Exercise & energy levels

Daily Exercise

20–30 minutes daily play

recommended per day

This breed has moderate energy levels, enjoying short play sessions and interactive toys but not requiring extensive daily exercise. Mental stimulation through gentle play and environmental enrichment is beneficial.

Recommended Activities:

Wand toy play sessions

Food-dispensing puzzle toys

Short interactive playtimes

Hide and seek games

Gentle grooming routines

Climbing cat trees

Is this breed right for you?

British Shorthairs are versatile cats that adapt well to many lifestyles, but they're not the perfect match for everyone. Here's a quick guide to help you determine if a British Shorthair would fit well in your home.